Ferrero recalls Kinder products after FSA cautionary advice on salmonella outbreak

04 Apr 2022 --- The Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland have advised consumers to avoid certain Ferrero Kinder products with best before dates 11 July and 7 October 2022, based on a connection to a potential Salmonella outbreak.

Following a precautionary product recall, consumers have been advised to take action if they have purchased a Kinder product linked to the timeframe and outbreak. The majority of cases have been detected in young children.

“We welcome the precautionary approach being taken by Ferrero and are advising consumers not to eat any of the products listed in the FSA alert. It is really important that consumers follow this advice to avoid the risk of becoming ill with salmonella poisoning,” says Tina Potter, FSA, head of incidents.

“We know that these particular products are popular with young children, especially as Easter approaches, so we would urge parents and guardians of children to check if any products already in their home are affected by this recall.

The link to Ferrero’s Kinder and the Salmonella outbreak was made via a range of investigations, led by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Public Health Scotland, Public Health Wales and Public Health Agency Northern Ireland.

Kinder removed from shelves until further notice
Ferrero took precautions to prevent any further Salmonella poisoning by withdrawing related products with “immediate effect” while investigations are ongoing. The products in question were manufactured at the same factory.

Consumers have been urged not to eat the products listed in the recall alert and follow the risk advice.

Kinder Surprise products have been recalled.

According to the FSA, symptoms of salmonellosis resolve themselves within a few days and include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever. However, symptoms can be more severe and lead to hospitalization, especially in the very young and those with weakened immune systems.

“The food business involved has voluntarily carried out this product withdrawal and recall and we are working closely with them and their competent authorities to identify the precise cause of this outbreak. We are also working closely with UK and international partners including UKHSA and Food Standards Scotland,” Potter explains.

“Anybody with concerns that they have symptoms of salmonellosis should contact their GP or call NHS 111. Salmonella can be spread from person to person, so anyone affected should adhere to good hygiene practices such as washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom and avoiding handling food for others where possible, if you have symptoms,” says Dr. Lesley Larkin, surveillance lead, gastrointestinal pathogens and food safety (One Health) at UKHSA.

Edited by Inga de Jong